GN Commentary: December 2, 2009 - Out of the Rubble

The next time you face the storms of hardship, try to look at them from a different perspective and determine to make it an opportunity for greater growth.

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Video Transcript

A few years ago, my in-laws hometown was devastated by an F4 tornado.  Violent winds destroyed the small Missouri village.  The old town square – gone; historic downtown buildings – consumed. 

The twister damaged so many properties, left scores of homes ruined, not to mention the countless number of trees that were left with completely leaf less limbs.

In the months following the huge tornado the town began reconstruction. Ultimately, the town square was rebuilt with a modern, yet hometown appeal. Out of the rubble has risen a beautiful quaint little town that has a forward-looking approach. 

Now imagine this: some townspeople say that the tornado was the best thing that ever happened to the little city.

Thinking of this circumstance, I'm reminded that we should be cautious in how we view tragedy.  Personal losses, family misfortunes or even unexpected adversity in life can be like a purifying fire in our lives. 

When your personal F4 whirlwind is raging, or after it leaves what seems like total disaster behind - it may just make new growth and greater development possible. 

Jesus taught this principle in John 12:24  "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain."

So the next time you face the storms of hardship, try to look at them from a different perspective and determine to make it an opportunity for greater growth.

For GN Magazine, I'm Steve Myers.